US Senator Warns Pakistan Over Iran Role
US Senator Rick Scott has warned Pakistan over what he described as a contradictory diplomatic role after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
US Senator Warns Pakistan Over Iran Role
Scott criticised Pakistan’s involvement in efforts linked to easing tensions between the United States and Iran, questioning Islamabad’s credibility as a potential mediator.
In a social media post, the Republican senator accused Pakistan of sending conflicting signals at a sensitive time for US-Iran diplomacy. He referred to Pakistan’s past record and said Washington should remain alert to Islamabad’s actions.
His remarks came after Sharif travelled to Tehran for Khamenei’s funeral and praised the late Iranian leader during the ceremony.
Shehbaz Sharif Khamenei Tribute Sparks Row
Sharif described Khamenei as a major religious and political figure and said Pakistan and Iran shared deep ties. His comments drew criticism from some US political voices who viewed the tribute as inconsistent with Pakistan’s reported diplomatic role between Washington and Tehran.
The episode has renewed debate in the US over whether Pakistan can act as a neutral player in West Asian diplomacy, especially given its close ties with Iran and its complex relationship with Washington.
Pakistan US Relations Face Fresh Scrutiny
The warning adds to existing pressure on Pakistan’s foreign policy balancing act. Islamabad has been trying to maintain relations with the US while preserving its regional ties with Iran and other partners.
Scott’s comments suggest that sections of the US political establishment remain sceptical of Pakistan’s positioning. The controversy could complicate Islamabad’s attempt to present itself as a constructive diplomatic actor in the region.
